Speaking to IANS, North Goa MP Shripad Naik, who is known for his proximity to the veteran leader, said Advani's decision had shocked him, especially because of its timing.

"I am shocked and sad. Advaniji said he was ill. And now, when the party was about to surge forward after yesterday's decision, he should not have resigned. He should have backed the party. This is really unfortunate," Naik said.

Advani's resignation from all party posts Monday comes a day after Modi was appointed chief of the party's election management committee at the end of a three-day BJP conclave in Goa.

The appointment came in the wake of opposition from Advani himself and leaders considered close to the party patriarch to Modi's elevation.